John recently claimed that Joel is "not happy" with him over comments he made suggesting that Joel needs to pursue rehab for an alcohol addiction.

Though Joel later responded to the accusations - denying that he struggles with a drinking problem and saying that he is not upset with John as the pair have been friends for too long - John said that this was not the case and that he had been contacted privately by Joel who expressed his true feelings.

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However, in a statement released to Rolling Stone on Friday, Joel reiterated: "I do not hate Elton John. I do not want to 'punch him in the face'.

"If he wants to call me, my number is still the same. Good luck with the movie [Gnomeo and Juliet]."